Man United Secure Victory Over Everton with Double Penalty Success
In a clash that veered more towards the functional than the flamboyant, Manchester United edged past Everton with a 2-0 victory at Old Trafford, propelled by penalties converted by Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford. This win nudged the Red Devils closer to the coveted Champions League spots, demonstrating that sometimes grit trumps glamour in the Premier League.
Penalties Propel United
The game, lacking the high-octane drama typically associated with the Premier League, saw Manchester United capitalise on Everton’s defensive lapses. Bruno Fernandes broke the deadlock 12 minutes in, coolly converting from the spot after a foul on Alejandro Garnacho. Marcus Rashford followed suit, doubling United’s lead with another penalty, punishing Everton further for their defensive fragility.
Everton’s Missed Opportunities
Despite a promising start where Everton appeared more likely to score, their early energy fizzled out, largely due to self-inflicted wounds. Ben Godfrey’s early threat was quickly overshadowed by James Tarkowski’s misjudged tackle that led to United’s first penalty. The Toffees’ efforts to claw back into the game were thwarted by a combination of Manchester United’s defensive resolve and their own inefficacy in front of goal.
Key Performances and Ratings
Manchester United Player Ratings:
- Andre Onana (GK): 7/10
- Diogo Dalot (RB): 6.5/10
- Raphael Varane (CB): 7.5/10
- Jonny Evans (CB): 7/10
- Victor Lindelof (LB): 6.5/10
- Kobbie Mainoo (CM): 7/10
- Casemiro (CM): 5/10
- Alejandro Garnacho (RM): 7.5/10
- Scott McTominay (AM): 6/10
- Marcus Rashford (LM): 7/10
- Bruno Fernandes (ST): 7.5/10
Manager:
- Erik ten Hag: 6.5/10
Everton Player Ratings: A Closer Look
- Jordan Pickford (GK): 5.5/10
- Ben Godfrey (RB): 4/10
- James Tarkowski (CB): 4/10
- Jarrad Branthwaite (CB): 6.5/10
- Vitaliy Mykolenko (LB): 6.5/10
- Jack Harrison (RM): 5.5/10
- Amadou Onana (CM): 6/10
- James Garner (CM): 5.5/10
- Dwight McNeil (LM): 6.5/10
- Abdoulaye Doucoure (AM): 6/10
- Beto (ST): 5/10
Manager:
- Sean Dyche: 5/10
